Welsh Language legislation could drive jobs out of Wales

The Welsh Language LCO announced by the Assembly Government could mean that employers chose not to locate their businesses in Wales, Antoinette Sandbach Conservative Parliamentary candidate warned today.

Antoinette said "Flintshire has attracted some high quality business investment, whilst I welcome steps to encourage and promote the use of the Welsh Language I do not believe legislation is the best way to achieve this. The details of the LCO will have to be examined very closely as business located in Wales could decide to move if the Assembly increases costs at a time when many are seeking to reduce their costs.

We have already seen the Assembly Government increase business rates by 5% which is an arrogant move in the current climate, to futher increase costs in Wales at a time when we need to encourage companies and business to stay in Wales or locate here to take advantage of the low pound is a shortsighted move by Labour.

Conservatives have been committed to the Welsh language but we have laid out our commitment to voluntary and not compulsory schemes and in our 2007 Assembly Manifesto commitments. It is vital that language development is achieved in partnership on a voluntary basis where appropriate.''